ZIF-67 Anchored Mn0.5Cd0.5S Constructs S-Scheme Heterojunctions to Facilitate Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production

Abstract

Photocatalytic hydrogen production is regarded as one of the most promising approaches for solar energy utilization due to its reliance on renewable energy sources, environmental friendliness, and generation of clean energy. In this field, Mn_0.5Cd_0.5S demonstrates considerable potential, but its severe stacking issue and insufficient exposure of active sites restrict its application. Although Mn_0.5Cd_0.5S demonstrates considerable potential, its severe stacking issue and insufficient exposure of active sites restrict its application. In this research, by combining Mn_0.5Cd_0.5S with dodecahedral ZIF-67 and optimizing the interfacial electronic structure, a uniform distribution of Mn_0.5Cd_0.5S on the surface of ZIF-67 was successfully accomplished. Synthesis of composite materials effectively mitigated the agglomeration phenomenon of Mn_0.5Cd_0.5S and constructed an S-scheme heterostructure of Mn_0.5Cd_0.5S/ZIF-67. The resulting composite achieved a hydrogen yield of 677.4 μmol in a lactic acid system, 6.8 times higher than that of pure Mn_0.5Cd_0.5S. This notable enhancement is attributed to the increased specific surface area of the composite, facilitating greater exposure of the active sites and improving charge transfer efficiency. In situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis revealed the underlying electron transfer mechanism, while EPR studies confirmed the enhanced redox capacity of the composite, further supporting its superior performance in hydrogen production. This research offers new insights into morphology and interface engineering for Mn_0.5Cd_0.5S-based materials.